For Anadarko senior Jakobi Tallent, representing his school and community on the football field is about more than just wins and losses. “It really means a lot to me,” he says. “I know being the quarterback I have a lot of eyes on me, especially the little ones. I hope that there are little kids saying they wanna be like me, and I really wish to inspire all the young ones I can.”
Tallent, who plays quarterback on offense and strong safety on defense, credits hard work and discipline for his success. “Hard work, discipline, and consistency have been the things I’ve seen improve my sports the most,” he shares. “I always strive to be the hardest working person in whatever it is I’m doing.”
This season, Tallent and his teammates started with a statement victory. “The highlight moment of my career was probably having a huge comeback game for our season opener this year,” he recalls. “We didn’t have a great season last year, and after we made the comeback we did, it really lit a fire in the whole team’s heart.”
Tallent draws motivation from several sources. “Something that motivates me is watching people at a higher level compete, and striving to be that good,” he says. He also gives credit to those closest to him. “My girlfriend Brianna is always on my side and always pushing me to be better as well.”
When it comes to role models, Tallent looks no further than his parents. “My dad is a big role model for me because he shows a lot of patience and is kind unless he needs to act differently,” he explains. “My mom really emphasizes being kind to everyone and never holding a grudge, no matter what.”
Among the educators who have influenced him, one stands out. “The teacher who had the biggest impact on my life happens to be the quarterback coach, Colin Watford,” he says. “He has helped me see things in life better than a lot of other people have been able to.”
In addition to football, Tallent is a member of the National Honor Society and also plays golf. Looking ahead, he plans to attend the University of Central Oklahoma after graduation. Wherever life takes him, his commitment to hard work and inspiring others will undoubtedly continue to shine.
